Irresistible Scottish Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Days

Published:

by Liora

Leave a Comment

Scottish Lentil Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, with flavors that dance on your taste buds and aromas that waft through the air like a friendly invitation. Imagine the earthy richness of lentils mingling with aromatic vegetables, all simmered to perfection. high-protein salad options It’s the kind of comfort food that warms your soul, especially when the skies are gray or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Jump to:

This soup isn’t just any dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to cozy nights spent at home, where laughter and stories filled the air while bowls of steaming soup warmed our hands. Perfect for chilly evenings, lazy weekends, or as a healthy addition to your lunch routine, Scottish Lentil Soup promises an amazing flavor experience that will make you want to pull up a chair and dig in. savory chicken dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Scottish Lentil Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Its rich, hearty flavor profile is sure to please even picky eaters.
  • The vibrant colors and textures create an appealing visual feast in any bowl.
  • Versatile enough to enjoy as a main dish or side, this soup adapts easily to your pantry staples.

Ingredients for Scottish Lentil Soup

For more inspiration, check out this creamy cauliflower bean soup recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Brown Lentils: These provide the heartiness and protein base for your soup. Opt for dried lentils for best results.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and color. Choose firm ones without blemishes.
  • Celery: Celery brings crunch and depth of flavor. Look for bright green stalks.
  • Onion: A large onion will add essential flavor; yellow onions are a great choice here.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the aroma; use about three cloves for a robust flavor.
  • Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt levels while adding depth.
  • Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves contribute to the soup’s complexity; remember to remove them before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Scottish Lentil Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they soften—about five minutes—while your kitchen fills with tempting scents.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Trust me; you’ll want to inhale deeply at this point—it’s pure bliss!

Step 3: Incorporate Lentils

Add rinsed brown lentils into the pot along with bay leaves. Stir everything together and soak up that warmth before adding your broth.

Step 4: Pour in Vegetable Broth

Pour in about six cups of vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about thirty minutes or until lentils are tender.

Step 5: Season

After simmering, season with salt and pepper according to taste. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley if you feel adventurous!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs or croutons if desired. This comforting meal is perfect on its own or paired with some crusty bread.

Transfer your glorious Scottish Lentil Soup into bowls—and don’t forget to share (or not)! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

You Must Know

  • This delightful Scottish lentil soup is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare.
  • With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a bowl that warms the soul.
  • It’s perfect for cold evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot until they soften. Then, add your lentils, carrots, and spices before covering with vegetable broth. Simmer until everything is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the lentils for chickpeas or toss in some spinach for an extra dose of greens. You can also play around with spices like cumin or smoked paprika to add depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until piping hot, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always rinse your lentils before cooking to remove any impurities.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley for garnish to brighten up the dish.
  • Adjust the seasoning at the end for optimal flavor balance.

There’s nothing quite like serving this Scottish lentil soup on a chilly day while wrapped in your favorite blanket. My friends always rave about it as the ultimate comfort food, especially when I accidentally spill it all over my shirt – adds character, right?

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Scottish Lentil Soup?

To prepare a delicious Scottish Lentil Soup, you will need red or green lentils, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, bay leaves, and your choice of herbs such as thyme or parsley. Optionally, you can add diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. comforting tomato soup Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple yet satisfying recipe showcases the wholesome goodness of lentils while remaining easy to make.

How long does it take to cook Scottish Lentil Soup?

Cooking Scottish Lentil Soup typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. First, sauté the vegetables until tender; then add the lentils and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering until the lentils are soft. light shrimp salad The cooking time may vary slightly depending on whether you’re using red or green lentils, so adjust accordingly for the best results.

Can I make Scottish Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Scottish Lentil Soup ahead of time! In fact, it often tastes even better after sitting for a day or two in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again. If needed, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to maintain the desired consistency.

Is Scottish Lentil Soup suitable for freezing?

Scottish Lentil Soup freezes beautifully! To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. This way, you can portion out servings for future meals. When you’re ready to eat it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Enjoy this nutritious soup on busy days without losing any flavor or quality from freezing.

Conclusion for Scottish Lentil Soup:

Scottish Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and herbs, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and health benefits. Whether enjoyed fresh or made in advance, it remains a comforting option that can be easily frozen for later use. Embrace this traditional recipe and savor its warmth during chilly days!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Scottish Lentil Soup


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Liora
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Scottish Lentil Soup is a nourishing and hearty dish that warms both body and soul. This comforting soup combines earthy brown lentils with vibrant vegetables, creating a delightful blend of flavors perfect for chilly days. With its rich aroma and satisfying texture, this easy-to-make soup is ideal for cozy nights or as an energizing lunch. Simple yet packed with nutrients, Scottish Lentil Soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat a splash of olive oil. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add rinsed brown lentils and bay leaves; stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally add fresh herbs before serving.
  6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional herbs or croutons if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Scottish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 0.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star